President Biden's Star-Studded Fundraiser in Los Angeles Causes Traffic Concerns

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
15/06/2024 23h56

President Biden arrived in Los Angeles on Saturday for a highly anticipated fundraiser that is expected to raise over $28 million from thousands of supporters. The star-studded event, featuring former President Obama, actors George Clooney and Julia Roberts, and other celebrities, is set to take place at the Peacock Theater in downtown Los Angeles later in the evening.

However, the presidential visit has raised concerns among Angelenos, particularly regarding traffic disruptions. Roads and street parking around the area, including the L.A. Live entertainment complex that houses the theater, will be temporarily blocked, causing heavy traffic congestion. Additionally, there are plans for a protest outside the venue.

While the precise whereabouts of President Biden, First Lady Jill Biden, and former President Obama's accommodations during their time in Los Angeles remain undisclosed, residents should anticipate freeway closures as the motorcades traverse the city.

The U.S. Secret Service, responsible for the president's security, stated that they work closely with local law enforcement to ensure public safety while minimizing disruptions. Specific motorcade routes cannot be released in advance due to security concerns. However, intermittent road closures and parking restrictions are to be expected.

The Los Angeles Department of Transportation urged travelers to anticipate delays in the downtown area and plan their routes accordingly.

It is worth noting that the Dodgers are also playing a game against the Kansas City Royals at Dodger Stadium, a few miles away from the Peacock Theater, further adding to potential traffic congestion in the city.

Presidential visits often cause traffic jams due to the significant security resources required to protect the leader of the free world. Los Angeles, notorious for its traffic issues, has experienced similar disruptions during President Obama's tenure. The terms "Obamajam" and "Obamageddon" even became part of the local vocabulary to describe the extraordinary congestion during his visits.

To mitigate such traffic problems, Obama's team began utilizing helicopters to transport him around the city. President Biden himself has previously caused traffic delays, such as the shutdown of parts of the 405 Freeway during a weeknight rush hour to facilitate his travel for a fundraiser in February.

Overall, the Biden fundraiser, with its impressive lineup of attendees, is expected to be a significant fundraising event. However, residents and commuters in Los Angeles must brace themselves for potential traffic disturbances as a result of the high-profile gathering.

As per the spokesperson for the Secret Service, their primary focus is on ensuring safety and security during the visit, while the Los Angeles Department of Transportation emphasized the need for residents to plan their travels accordingly.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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